KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — The City of Kalamazoo is experiencing flooding this week, and some streets have already been closed as a result.
Flooding of the Kalamazoo River is expected through Sunday, May 24, with the worst flooding expected Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Flood conditions will affect streets and properties in low-lying areas near the Kalamazoo River, along with Portage and Axtell Creeks.
Road closures and detours are expected to be necessary in sections of Dutton Street, Jasper Street, Vine Street, 3rd Street, 4th Street, Park Street, Rose Street, and Crosstown Parkway near the Crosstown Ponds.
The East Michigan Avenue viaduct is expected to remain open, however motorists should stay alert to potential changes or additional street closures.
Residents and property owners in these areas should take steps to prepare themselves and their properties.
The City of Kalamazoo has prepared 1,500 sandbags which will be available to city residents the morning of Thursday, May 21. The sandbags will be in the parking lane in front of the Edison Neighborhood Association, located at 816 Washington Avenue.
When picking up sandbags, city residents are asked to wear a mask and keep a safe distance from others to prevent spreading COVID-19.
The Kalamazoo River is expected to crest at approximately ten feet this weekend. It is considered to be in flood stage at nine feet. During the historic 2018 flood, the Kalamazoo River reached a record 11.7 feet.
As of Thursday at 9:00 a.m., the following areas have already closed:
- Sections of Ampersee and Ray Streets
- Dutton Street between Portage and Jasper
- Vine Street between Portage and Crosstown
When dealing with flood conditions, city officials are reminding citizens of the following tips:
- Never move or drive around barricades.
- Six inches of moving water and knock a person off their feet and two feet can float a car.
- If you encounter flood water while walking or driving, stop and find another route.
- Reach out to friends and family members who may be at risk to ensure they are aware of the expected flooding.
“We want to make sure people remember that every time we have heavy rain, we start seeing flooding that is localized, often into the downtown Kalamazoo area, as well as along the Kalamazoo River,” Kalamazoo Sheriff Richard Fuller said. “We want people to be cautious about that. Remember that is happening, drive appropriately, and stay out of the areas that do have localized road flooding.”
The news of this flooding comes as the City of Battle Creek is experiencing similar issues. It also comes as Midland County is dealing with widespread flooding after a recent dam breach, which has caused Governor Whitmer to declare a State of Emergency for the area.
